Louisiana: Legislature Adjourns After Passing Many Pro-Gun Reforms

The Louisiana Legislature adjourned sine die on Thursday, June 6, after taking final action on a number of pro-Second Amendment bills in the last week of session.

House Bill 8 by state Representative Jeff Thompson (R-Bossier City) strengthens the current concealed handgun permit confidentiality statute by establishing fines and criminal penalties for individuals who intentionally release, disseminate, or otherwise make public, information on persons who have applied for or been issued carry permits.  This bill has been sent to Governor Bobby Jindal (R) for his signature.

Senate Bill 135 by state Senator Neil Riser (R-Columbia) and House Bill 717 by state Representative Henry Burns (R-Haughton) bring the state into compliance with requirements set forth in the federal NICS Improvement Amendments Act (NIAA) of 2007.  This legislation does not expand or create new categories of prohibited persons; rather, it requires the submission of records of individuals who have been placed under certain types of mental health-related orders by a court -- and are prohibited by federal law from possessing firearms -- into the NICS database.  SB 135 and HB 717 would also allow a court to grant relief from the federal prohibition upon a finding that the petitioner will not be likely to act in a manner dangerous to public safety and that the granting of the relief would not be contrary to the public interest.  Both measures have been sent to Governor Jindal for his signature.

House Bill 277 by state Representative Eddie Lambert (R-Gonzales) repeals the current state police registration requirement for the transfer of guns and accessories that are regulated under the National Firearms Act.  The law the Legislature passed in 2011 allowing for the use of suppressors for hunting feral hogs has significantly increased interest in acquiring the devices -- and highlighted the need to repeal this antiquated state registration requirement that is burdensome for law enforcement, industry and consumers.

Thanks to all who contacted their legislators this session!  Your calls and e-mails make the difference.  NRA-ILA will continue to keep you updated on these and other firearm-related bills.